Despite a recent dip in form, Arsene Wenger remains confident that Arsenal will win the Premier League title this season, even though their lead over Manchester City has been cut down to four points.
Arsenal’s recent dip in form has caused some concern among fans as their eight-point lead over Manchester City has been cut down to just four points. However, former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger remains confident that his former side will see off City to become champions this season.
Mikel Arteta’s side dropped crucial points against Liverpool and West Ham in consecutive weeks despite leading both games 2-0 before collapsing. These results have caused some Gunners fans to worry ahead of their season-defining trip to the Etihad next week, which could effectively decide the title race. City also have a game in hand over Arsenal, which only adds to the pressure.
Speaking to
about the title race, Wenger said: “Arsenal and these players have not been in the position to win the league before. Hopefully, they win it this year, and next year it will be easier. But now, when you have never won it, there will be a moment in the season when the tension comes in.”
Wenger also expressed that the pressure to win can make it difficult to focus on the process of playing football. “When you start thinking more about the need to win than the process and how to play, it gets difficult. I felt that at Arsenal when I was there too,” he said.
When asked whether Manchester City were the favorites to win the Premier League, Wenger firmly stated, “No, no, no. I would say Arsenal still [will win the title].”
He believes that the key is for Arsenal to have control over their fate, saying, “What you want in this position is to have things in your hand. If Arsenal win their games, they win the league so that’s an ideal position with a few games to go.”
Despite Wenger’s confidence, the upcoming match against Manchester City will be a crucial test for Arsenal. The former manager also noted that City’s involvement in the Champions League could take a toll on their performance, potentially giving Arsenal an advantage in the title race.
While the season is still far from over, the pressure is mounting for Arsenal to maintain their lead and secure the title. With Wenger’s confidence and experience behind them, the Gunners will undoubtedly be aiming to finish the season strong and claim their first league title since 2004.